Nathaniel Fried
Over decades in design, we have worked with couples new, old and in between.
Some things are universal:
- Understand that good design is a harmonious blend of form and function that reflects your life story.
- It depends on balance, proportion, color, texture, shape, and lighting.
- The clearer picture you have of what you want, the more likely you are to achieve that décor.
For new couples specifically:
- Be honest with each other, and share what you really like and do not like in décor.
- It is easier to create great décor in a new look than to try to blend your old, separate styles.
- Look at magazines, showrooms, open houses, TV shows, etc. and try to agree on a look that you both like. Try to understand why you like that look. Then use those design elements to create your own special space.
- Part of being a strong couple is appreciating each other’s strengths and helping each other to overcome weaknesses. The same is true is creating a mutual living space. Be willing to find common ground that reflects the love and life you are sharing.
- Do not get wound up and defensive. Chances are that in 20 years you will look back and wonder what the heck you were thinking of buying whatever.
- Stay on budget. Over time you can find amazing bargains in great design at resale shops, consignment stores, yard sales, etc.
- It is better to have a room that is half empty than one full of tasteless crap. Give yourselves time to develop a style and to find design elements you love at a price you can afford.
- Look for quality of materials, design, and workmanship in everything you buy.
Contributor: Beverly Solomon
Like this advice and want to get more tips and guidance from Beverly Solomon? Find out how you could get help from her designing your perfect house here.
About Beverly Solomon: Before opening her international art & design firm near Austin, she was a model and then an executive in sales and marketing for Diane von Furstenberg, Revlon, and Ralph Lauren. She has been featured in dozens of books, major magazines and newspapers, TV, radio, and film. She was honored by the State of Texas for her work on Eco tourism in 2016.
